The Missouri Bar announced on May 2 that its Special Committee on Rural Practice is asking residents in rural Missouri counties to participate in a survey about their experiences hiring lawyers and accessing legal services.
The initiative aims to gather information that will help the committee make policy and program recommendations, with the goal of ensuring all Missouri residents have adequate access to legal support. The committee was launched in 2025 and includes more than 30 lawyers from across the state. It is also conducting surveys and interviews with rural lawyers and judges.
“Across Missouri, we are hearing real concerns about access to legal services in rural communities,” said Shelly Dreyer, 2024-2025 Missouri Bar president. “While we know there are challenges, we don’t yet fully understand the scope of the issue.”
The survey asks participants whether they have struggled to find a lawyer, how far they would be willing to travel for legal help, and if they would consider virtual appointments. All responses will remain anonymous and individual replies will not be made public.
Dreyer is co-chairing the special committee with Judge Corey Moon of the 2nd Judicial Circuit. Dreyer said, “The Missouri Bar’s mission is to improve the lives of Missourians. That’s why this committee’s work is so important — it brings together data and perspectives to determine whether a shortage of attorneys exists in rural Missouri and what it means for access to justice.”
The Missouri Bar serves as the integrated professional association for all practicing attorneys in Missouri according to its official website. The organization provides resources such as continuing education, publications, a lawyer directory for public use, conference rooms at The Bar Center for member functions, and partners with educators statewide according to its official website. Established by order of the Supreme Court of Missouri in 1944, it operates under a board of elected governors from its headquarters in Jefferson City according to its official website.
By gathering feedback through this survey process, The Missouri Bar seeks new ways forward as it continues supporting both attorneys and communities throughout Missouri.
